Two firms that have began mining exploration activities in Sipalay City have so far provided close to 1,000 jobs to residents of the area, Mayor Oscar Montilla said yesterday.

There are the Selenga Mining Corp. and Philex Mining Corp. that are eyeing copper and gold deposits, he said.

The mining firms are welcomed by residents of Sipalay because they provide jobs to help address poverty, and also generate income for the city, neighboring areas and the whole province, he said.

But Montilla said he did not know when the two firms will begin actual mining as they are still in the exploration stage.

He said Maricalum Mining Corp. has yet to resume operations in Sipalay as it had not yet paid its back taxes to the city and to the provincial government.

National Democratic Front of the Philippines chief negotiator Luis Jalandoni had earlier said that destructive mining operations must not be allowed in the country, which his group will pursue in the draft agreement on social and economic rights in peace talks with the government.

Montilla said they are ensuring that destructive mining is not conducted in Sipalay City.

He said protecting mining investors from possible rebel attacks was a concern of the national government.

Meanwhile, Gov. Alfredo Marañon Jr. said he prefers small-time mining operations that are good for the livelihood of residents.*CPG

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